St Aloysius Newsletter

From the Principal

The Music Department has had a very busy end to the term. As well as the individual performances last Sunday in the Heritage Room, the Senior Choir led the singing at the Hutt St Centre Mass at the Cathedral. Students and staff share their musical talents with the world with great generosity, and this was appreciated by all who attended these events.

The SACOSA Choir sang beautifully at our Annual Winter Cocktail Party last Friday. The many new members from the Class of 2023 lifted the choir to new heights. Thanks must go to Kate Lewis, who makes everyone feel welcome and valued, whilst also producing high quality performances year after year. She chooses a lovely repertoire that showcases all voices, and the choir just keeps growing in confidence!

NAIDOC Week falls in the holidays again this year, so we had some special events at the College this week. Accomplished actress, Shantae Barnes-Cowan, is an Adnyamathanha woman who has starred in both movies and TV series. Shantae shared some stories from her career in the movie industry, and encouraged students to strive to realise their dreams, taking every opportunity that comes their way.

During the holidays, we will be finishing the construction of the Mitchell Steps project, which will create a physical Acknowledgment of Country in the centre of the College. The artworks which sit behind each wardli, or home, were created by our First Nations students in collaboration with the artist Cedric Varcoe. Maja Tongerie has worked alongside Cedric and the girls to bring this project to life. We hope you will all enjoy the beauty and peace of this space as you pass through the courtyard.

Thanks to the many families who came along to the Primary end of semester Mass and Awards Ceremony at the Cathedral this week. Your presence makes these moments more special for the children. As they receive their certificates, it is always nice to see them looking around to find Mum, Dad or Grandma in the crowd, seeing the pride in their eyes! We hope that the girls recognise that there are many gifts to be celebrated, and that everyone brings something special to this community.

And at this very chilly end to Term 2, can I thank all the students, families and friends of the College for your unwavering support for the work we do here in educating girls in the Mercy tradition. We are so proud of our students, past and present, who live out Mercy values each day. As Pope Francis says, “Mercy makes the world a little less cold and more just”.

See you in Term 3!

Ms Paddy McEvoy
Principal

From the Digital Technologies Coordinator

A Journey from Planning to Professional Production - Year 9 Students Master Podcasting with Arch D Radio's James

The last couple of weeks James from Arch D Radio has been helping a group of dedicated year 9 students expand their podcasting skills. The students have been guided through planning, recording and editing podcasts and have been able to utilise the new studio to ensure they produce professional podcasts. 

“It was such a fun and amazing experience that helped me with my confidence in public speaking and helped me find my voice” - Molly Rothmore (School Podcasting Leader)

Mr Thomas Cotton
Digital Technologies Coordinator

French Students also shine in weekly podcast creations in our new Tech Studio!

A group of Year 9 and Stage 2 French students have been meeting weekly in our exciting new Digital Tech Studio to create podcasts in French.

"With these resources at our disposal, recording a podcast has been a fun and interactive way to develop our French skills. Practicing French speaking can often be one of the hardest aspects, and being able to do this in a safe and supportive environment has helped to build our confidence." - Olivia Daniel, Lucy Gill, Poppy Watts

A Good Beginning is of Great Importance

Mercy Light: Learning

While the completion of term is in many ways an ending, for some of our youngest students and their families, it signifies the opposite: the start to a great adventure of learning and personal growth. The College welcomed new students starting Reception mid-year for three transition mornings, offering them a gentle introduction to school life.

Primary Coordinator, Ms Abby Matte, along with teachers, Ms Jess Grohs and Ms Nadia Fimiani, have been excitedly preparing for their new pupils.

“We are thrilled to welcome our newest students to our school community! The Term 3 Reception class is buzzing with excitement, and we can’t wait to see their smiling faces as they embark on their educational journey at SAC next term!”  say Abby.

Sisters of Mercy Foundress, Catherine McAuley, noted, “a good beginning is of great importance.”  In this spirit from Early Years to Year 12, staff at SAC are committed to building relationships with students and their families to ensure they feel supported and achieve their goals.

The new students had the chance to meet some of SAC’s friendly staff before their transition mornings, so that a sense of familiarity and support was established, easing their transition to school. Abby shares, “we went to visit all the students in their initial early years environments. Our little learners have now had the chance to spend time learning at SAC, guided by the wonderful Ms Fimiani and Ms Grohs. Transitioning to a new environment can be both exciting and nerve-wracking, but in the capable hands of our nurturing teaching staff, each student has thrived!”

Mid-year Reception enrolment enables the girls to complete their foundational year across six terms, rather than the traditional four. The program consists of three transition sessions and allows the girls to be immersed in aspects of school life before beginning full days in the classroom. Mid-year Reception teachers, Ms Grohs and Ms Fimiani, facilitate engaging activities during playtimes and maintain a warm and welcoming presence before and after school, fostering a rich sense of community.

In just a few weeks, the students will return to SAC, this time in their full uniform, ready to make the most of SAC’s offerings – including, of course, the renowned Climbing Tree playground they’ve so enjoyed! They’ll continue to be supported by staff and peers, and eventually older students through the Sisters in Action (SIA) program, whereby Receptions are guided and mentored by Year 6 students.

Read a little of what the students most enjoyed during their introduction to SAC, and what excites them about joining the community:

“I can’t wait to learn numbers, letters and making things. I really enjoyed painting.” – Anastasia

“I really enjoyed making bracelets because I like making craft.” – Yosra

“I was happy dancing at Music. I am excited to start school!” – Arissa

“I can’t wait to do lots of painting, my favourite thing to do is colouring in.” – Swara

“I really liked playing sports in the Gym.” – Iniya

“I liked that we got to play games in the Gym.” – Zoya

“I am excited to play basketball when I start school.” – Miheylee

“I really enjoyed doing our Music lesson because I like to sing.” – Violet

“I liked doing different activities like beading, playdough and puzzles.” - Lan

“I’m excited for the swimming pool!” – Octavia

On day one of Term 3, the College community will be eagerly awaiting the arrival of the new Receptions in Dunlevie Courtyard and celebrating 100 days of Reception for those who joined in Term 1. It is all around a very good beginning.

Ms Maddie Kelly
Marketing & Communications Team

2024 SA Refugee Week Youth Poster Award Exhibition

The 2024 SA Refugee Week Youth Poster Award Exhibition was officially launched on Friday 21 June in the Children’s ArtSpace Gallery at the Adelaide Festival Centre by the Hon Blair Boyer Minister for Education.

Entries are currently on display from students across the state with SAC Year 11 student Philippa being one of only three students to win a cash prize. Year 11 students Madelyn and Niamh were also shortlisted with their fantastic posters also on display. Congratulations, we couldn’t be prouder of you all!

Thank you to Ms Danielle Toubia for taking the time to be our Visual Arts representing staff member at the event.

What an honour to be a part of such a prestigious state award with such an important message of social justice.

Ms Phoebe Koch
Acting Visual Arts Coordinator

NAIDOC WEEK - Celebrating Culture, Connection and Community

Sharing Stories with Actor, Shantae Barnes-Cowan

NAIDOC Week (July 7-14) celebrates and recognises the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. In the lead-up to NAIDOC Week 2024, St Aloysius students were fortunate to be able to listen to Australian actor, Shantae Barnes-Cowan, who shared her experiences and achievements in the film industry. Shantae is a proud Adnyamathanha woman from Whyalla and has starred in various television and film projects, including Sweet As, Total Control, Firebite and Wyrmwood: Apocalypse. Shantae spoke about how she discovered a love of acting, the importance of culture and family and how she managed her time on set while completing Year 12. Shantae is a woman of many and varied talents; In 2018, Shantae was awarded the Whyalla NAIDOC Week award for Female Sportsperson of the Year. In 2020, Shantae was awarded the Whyalla Australia Day Young Citizen of the Year Award and was nominated for the Channel 7 Young Achiever Award in the Aboriginal Achievement category. In 2021, while studying Year 12, Shantae worked on film sets across Australia, first appearing in Wyrmwood Apocalypse, followed by Sweet As, and then Firebite, all in that year. In 2022, she was nominated as one of Adelaide's 26 most inspiring women. 

These achievements were followed by another outstanding career milestone in 2023, when Shantae was nominated for Best Lead Actress in Film at the AACTA Awards - one of Australia's most prestigious arts honours. Shantae's personal achievements are equally as impressive as her personal ones, and her resilience, courage and work ethic make her a phenomenal role model for all who aspire to transform their lives and overcome challenges.

NAIDOC Week Donuts for Tjindu Foundation 

Although NAIDOC Week falls during the school holidays this year, students still had the opportunity to celebrate by purchasing donuts in the colours of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander flags on Thursday Week 10! The funds raised from donut sales will support local, grassroots organisation, the Tjindu Foundation. Tjindu is close to the hearts of members within our SAC community and provides education and sporting opportunities for First Nations youth.Thank you to all who supported Tjindu by purchasing a donut, and we look forward to sharing the total amount raised soon!

ConnectING WITH FAMILIES AND FRIENDS

This year's NAIDOC Week theme is 'Keep the Fire Burning! Blak, Loud and Proud', where the aim is to ignite the flame in culture. This year to celebrate, on Tuesday Week 10, we invited family members of our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students to come join us in some fun lunchtime activities.

The students had a chance to network and connect with the families of their friends, while drawing, colouring in, weaving baskets with wool and doing puzzles. The goal of this event was to celebrate culture, and the community that we are so lucky to have within the school. This event allowed the students to celebrate their cultural identity, while empowering the students within, and allowing them to grow into young leaders, where they can thrive and advocate for their community.’

Ms Viviana Graney
Primary Coordinator (Teaching & Learning) | First Nations Focus Teacher

Ms Maja Tongerie
Learning Support Officer

Ms Maddie Kelly
Communications Officer | JAM Coordinator

Year 7 Students Tackle Water Filtration with Ambitious Engineering at STEM Club

On a Monday STEM Club, Year 7 students Olivia, Sienna and Ashley took on the challenge of constructing a water filter that could be used to make dirty water drinkable. Although some success was achieved, no one would have drunk it!

Enriching Spiritual Journeys: Retreats at St Aloysius College for Students and Staff Alike

Student retreats are one of the ways in which we nurture and nourish the spiritual lives of our students, inviting them to deepen their encounter with God. This same invitation is extended to staff who are invited to deepen their encounter with God, as well as their understanding of their unique contribution to the school’s religious identity.

Offering staff a retreat experience, one which is so highly valued by our students, is a practice which supports staff in their spiritual wellbeing, deepening appreciation of Catholic faith and their growing capacity for witness to the Gospel. At St Aloysius College we extend the invitation to all staff to make a retreat over two and a half days at the Centre for Ignatian Spirituality, at Sevenhill in the Clare Valley.

Ms Libby Boylan
Faith and Mission Coordinator

Staff Reflections:

"The retreat was a wonderful opportunity to stop and reflect on life in the beautiful setting at Sevenhill."

"I feel very grateful to have been given the opportunity to reflect and spend time on my own spiritual wellbeing, as well as spend time with some of my colleagues."

"It gave me the opportunity to look inward and know that I am on the right path even though my hectic life might lead me to think otherwise."

"It was a time to nurture myself. The facilitators guided the retreat with care and compassion for each of us in the group. I felt very fortunate to share this time with my colleagues in a meaningful way and in an idyllic setting."

"Pausing, reflecting and considering our deeper connections with our spirituality is a privilege in our busy lives. It is so vital and exactly what our gentle and compassionate Spiritual Directors provided at Sevenhill."

2024 SAC Can Drive - Uniting our community for a great cause!

Thanks to everyone in our community for the amazing effort to bring the 2024 SAC Can Drive together, with the theme ‘Reading is Magic’. Sr Janet Mead’s Adelaide Day Centre staff were impressed by the creativity of the sculptures and the number of cans collected; especially given the challenges many families are facing at this time. Special thanks to Ms Jacqui Mcilroy, who ensures that everything runs seamlessly, and the Year 11 SRC for their outstanding commitment and leadership. This whole school event allows students of different ages to collaborate and have fun for a good cause. 

Crafting Connections: Creating Cozy Squares for a Great Cause!"

We've got an amazing group of girls meeting each week, learning to knit and crochet. It's a wonderful holiday project too so keep those 20 x 20 cm squares coming in!

Ms Wendy-Anne Heuzenroeder
Teacher

From the Music Department

Sunday Soirée

This past Sunday, our school was alive with the sound of music as we hosted the much-anticipated Sunday Soirée. The day was filled with three concerts, with students presenting the repertoire they have been learning with their private tutors.

Throughout the day, audiences were treated to a variety of performances, ranging from classical piano pieces to contemporary vocal solos. The dedication of our young musicians was evident in every note they played, with the performances a testament to the diverse musical skills nurtured at our school. 

The Sunday Soirée was a celebration of our students’ hard work, talent, and love for music. We are incredibly proud of all the performers and grateful to their private tutors for their guidance and support. Thank you to all the Music staff and instrumental/vocal tutors who supported the students on the day and congratulations to all performers!

hutt St Centre Platinum Jubilee Commemorative Mass

On Saturday 22 June, the Senior Choir led the singing at the Hutt St Centre Platinum Jubilee Commemorative Mass, held in the St Francis Xavier's Cathedral. Established in 1954 by the Daughters of Charity, the Centre was founded to provide essential assistance to homeless men in Adelaide’s south-eastern corner, many of whom were returned soldiers from World War II. The Commemorative Mass, led by Archbishop Patrick O’Regan marks 70 years of dedicated service to the community and during the service, Archbishop O’Regan presented the Sisters with a special blessing from Pope Francis.

The event was not just an acknowledgement of the past but also a reminder of the ongoing need for compassion and support within our community. As we reflect on the Centre’s remarkable history, we are inspired to continue the legacy of the many staff and volunteers at the Hutt St Centre, ensuring that the Centre remains a beacon of hope and assistance for those in need.

Class of Cabaret

We are thrilled to share the exciting journey of one of our very own students, Year 12 student, Sara, who recently participated in the fabulous Class of Cabaret 2024 program. This unique opportunity, part of the Adelaide Cabaret Festival, brings together talented young performers from across South Australia to develop their skills in the art of cabaret.

Sara successfully auditioned to join the program, following in the footsteps of fellow Year 12 student, Bridget, who participated in the program in 2023. Over the course of Terms 1 and 2 each year, they engaged in intensive rehearsals, workshops, and masterclasses, guided by renowned artists and vocal coaches. This rigorous training culminated in two spectacular public performances during the Adelaide Cabaret Festival.

We congratulate Sara and Bridget on their outstanding accomplishments and can’t wait to see their future performances light up the stage.

Ms Fiona Turner
Music Coordinator

Celebrating Culture and Community at CESA's Annual Gathering for First Nations Students

The Thriving People event is an annual gathering organised by Catholic Education South Australia. It brings together First Nations students from Years 7 to 10 in Catholic schools, along with their teachers. The event aims to foster connections, celebrate culture, and give students an opportunity to learn from and with Community Elders and Mentors. From dance to songwriting, clapstick carving and weaving, this opportunity is not just about learning new skills but is an opportunity to sit and 'yarn' with each other and share stories in a space that is culturally safe and rich.

Ms Viviana Graney
Primary Coordinator (First Nations Focus Teacher)

Welcoming French Exchange Students: A Warm Adelaide Adventure!

With the return of the French Exchange program, we are very excited to welcome three groups of students from our two sister schools in Paris and Lyon who will be staying with their host families for the next month. 

This is what Alice, Constance and Louise, the first group of Parisians, have observed about their time here with us: 

"As French exchange students, when we arrived in Adelaide and discovered St Aloysius College for the first time, it was quite surprising to see how classes were organised here. Classes are shorter here, and school days finish earlier than in France. The students have more access to IT and the internet, which teaches them how to use the new resources in pace with our time. This gives them the opportunity to select their subjects, makes them more responsible and involved in their courses. Moreover, we really appreciate the healthy relationship between pupils and their teachers. Thank you for the warm welcome we have received! "

We hope that they all have a wonderful experience in Adelaide. 

Ms Jane Mahar 
Coordinator of Languages, Overseas Study Tours and International Exchanges 

Pictured above:
Year 11 French student visitors and their SAC sister buddies, Year 10 French student visitors with their SAC sister buddies

From the Primary Sport Coordinator

Representative Sport

At the end of Week 8, Eleousa and Harsanjh from Year 6 represented St Aloysius College in the East Adelaide district teams who competed at the Metro SAPSASA State Netball Carnival. The girls were selected after a lengthy trial process that began with over 90 students competing for a spot on one of two teams.

From all accounts they had a great experience across the three days. Eleousa’s team finished 5^th with Harsanjh’s team winning a silver medal. Well done girls! First Nations Year 12 student, Tatum designed an Indigenous AFL guernsey for the East Adelaide district. The girls are wearing a jacket that includes part of her design. They look amazing! We are looking forward to seeing the AFL guernsey with the complete design. This design will eventually be used for all East Adelaide uniforms. Tatum will be presented with her own guernsey at a later date where we will take some photos and share an explanation of what she created. Well done, Tatum, a great achievement!

The Primary Sport Portal

All primary parents have access to the recently created Primary Sport Portal. Please go to your SEQTA Engage App on your phone, or access via SEQTA Engage on your computer. This is a one stop Primary Sport shop for you to access the information and links you need.

Term 3 Primary Sport

Please be aware that nominations for Term 3 Primary Sport have now closed. Participant lists have been created and Consent2Gos will be out early in Term 3.

Have a great holiday!

Ms Sarah Anderson
Primary Sport Coordinator

Tottenham Hotspur Clinics @CBC

On Monday 1 July some Year 4 and 5 classes were given the opportunity to participate in the Tottenham Hotspur Soccer clinics through the partnership that CBC have formed with the overseas club.

They learnt new skills and were enthusiastic throughout the sessions and many were keen to give soccer a go in the future after their positive experience.

Thank you to CBC for reaching out and giving the girls this amazing opportunity. We look forward to making more connections in the future.

From the Secondary Sport Coordinator

Year 7/8 Knockout Netball

We are so very excited for our Year 7/8 Knockout Netball team who have progressed through to Round 2 of the Division 2 Statewide Schools Competition. The team travelled to Reynella East High School on Friday of Week 9 to play against their 7/8 knockout team, as well as Aldinga Payinthi College and Seaview High School. The girls were outstanding on the day, winning all three games. The girls will now set their sights on the next round of the competition early in Term 3, coached by old scholars Jessica Dalwood & Maeve Garnett. Stay tuned!

OPEN KNOCKOUT SOCCER

Our open soccer team also competed in the Round 1 competition on Thursday of Week 9, coming up against Adelaide Botanic and SEDA College. They made an impressive start against Botanic, scoring a game-saving goal in the last 10 seconds of the girst game to win 4-3. SEDA was a very strong opponent, and although the girls didn’t win this game, they put forth an amazing defensive effort. A big thanks to old scholar coach, Isabel Trimboli for her leadership on the day.

SPORTING SPOTLIGHT

Year 7 student, Pearl, has been selected to join the 2024 Football South Australia U13 Girls travelling team. She will be representing the state in Singapore later this year after trialling within football SA. We congratulate Pearl on this amazing accomplishment and wish her all the best of luck!

From the Director of Student Wellbeing (Secondary)

Wellbeing in the Middle Years

It has been a busy term for students in the middle years.  Alongside their academic studies, students have been engaging with opportunities to develop their social and emotional skills.  Social and emotional learning (SEL) is crucial as it equips students with essential skills to manage emotions, build positive relationships, and make responsible decisions. By fostering self-awareness, empathy, and effective communication, SEL enhances academic performance and creates a supportive learning environment.

Year 7 & 8 Brainstorm Productions

Earlier this term, Year 7 and Year 8 students attended a performance from the team at Brainstorm Productions. Brainstorm Productions are one of Australia’s most experienced and respected educational theatre companies, reaching more than 260,000 students each year with their evidence-based anti-bullying, cyber safety and student wellbeing programs.

Students watched a performance of ‘Sticks and Stones’ which shines a light on issues such as cyberbullying, image-based abuse and coercive control. The show, and the Q&A that followed, equipped students with practical strategies for emotion regulation, assertiveness, conflict resolution, and help-seeking.

Student Reflections:

"This performance was very engaging and covered lots of different topics such as gender stereotypes, abusive relationships and people struggling with mental health. They taught us how to deal with our anger and how our actions have an impact on people." – Maya (Year 8)

"I found this production of ‘Sticks and Stones’ engaging and interesting. The actors were just amazing at making this performance come to life! The message that was sent through their acting was captivating. I really enjoyed this show and would love to see more of their shows!" – Stella (Year 8)

"I think that it was very interesting and an important topic that affects people. I learnt how different types of relationships can affect people in different ways, even when they are not directly involved in the situation." - Anonymous (Year 8)

Year 9 Pastoral Care program

This year we have launched the Pastoral Care program in Year 9.  Students have two lessons per week to engage in targeted social and emotional learning to assist them in fostering positive relationships and support them in their personal decision making.

To conclude their first term’s work on ‘Respectful Relationships’, the Year 9 cohort participated in a Q&A Forum in the McAuley Auditorium.  Year 12 students responded to questions, generated by the students themselves.  Questions included:

• How did you manage your workload when you were in Year 9?
• How do you deal with procrastination?
• How did you manage friendship issues?
• Do you worry about the future?

The Year 12 students were incredibly engaging, sharing their own experiences and providing guidance in a relatable, yet positive way.

A huge thank you to Year 12 students, Elli, Gabby, Morgan, Amy, Hannah, Chiara, Poshika and Gabi for giving up their time and sharing their insights with the Year 9 students.

Ms Rachel Gould
Director of Wellbeing (Secondary)

Year 9 Religious Education - Students Connect with the Pope Through 'The Letter'

After watching the Pope’s documentary, 'The Letter', our class (9CW) felt inspired to reach out to the Pope to express how his documentary impacted us. We wrote about how the documentary changed our perspective on caring for our common home and how SAC is already taking steps to making the world a better place.  We thought it was important for the Pope to know that his message has reached us in Australia and that our class was revitalised to continue taking action to protect the environment.

It was a really fun and eye-opening experience learning about Laudato Si and how we individually can contribute to a better planet and a better future for everyone.

Lavender McMahon, Hallie Bennett, Annabel May and Olivia Coyle

A Journey of Mindfulness and Reflection at the Year 10 Retreat

Reflecting on this week’s Year 10 Retreat, our students shared their experiences of mindfulness and relaxation. 🌿✨ From meditative clay sculpting to solo labyrinth walks, these activities brought a sense of calm and introspection. Here’s what some students had to say:

"The retreat was a great experience. We participated in a range of mindful activities such as mandala making, meditative clay sculpting and a labyrinth walk. The activities were fun and relaxing and created a calming experience.  My favourite activity was walking the labyrinth. We each spent around 20 minutes on a solo journey during which we read meditations and completed some prayerful activities." - Maria Jurasic 10PK

"The Year 10 Retreat was an eye opening and relaxing, calming experience. The labyrinth walk was an opportunity to focus on your inner life, while completing some activities on your journey to the centre and out again." - Lauren Wallace-Fletcher 10PK 

"The words of the mandala meditation were very strong and deep, talking about letting unnecessary sadness go and letting the floor carry our weight, so we can be light and free. This activity was one of my favourites as each person interpreted the meditation differently and all had the freedom to draw what they felt into a mandala. Everyone said it was a good start to our stress-free day. On the labyrinth walk there was a range of activities along the path to the middle and back out. I especially enjoyed the activities about setting out bad thoughts free and praying for others. During the journey through the labyrinth, there was calming music playing, which freed your mind. The labyrinth experience was very new and fresh for me and many others, but I enjoyed it a lot and feel it opened me up in many ways." - Addison Repen 10SN

"Attending the Year 10 Retreat in Aldgate was an unforgettable experience. Despite the chilly weather freezing the tip of our noses, the stunning views made every moment worthwhile! One of the most impactful activities was navigating our way through the labyrinth, the activities we did throughout this allowed me to focus on aspects of life I hadn’t given much focus to before, as well as allowing us to think about God. We were fortunate enough to have delicious scones and cream for morning tea. We then engaged in a clay activity, where we created objects that represented our connection to God. It was a reflective and meaningful exercise which we all enjoyed! Drawing mandalas followed, which was both fun and calming. Lunch was not only spectacular because the food was delightful, but also because it was prepared by volunteers who showcased the mercy values of service and hospitality we follow at St Aloysius. This retreat also provided an opportunity for everyone to interact with other Year 10s  they usually didn’t talk to, leading to new friendships sprouting. Overall, it was a rewarding and enriching experience that I am grateful to be a part of." - Mariya Zhagwan 10SN

Making Mercy Connections at AMSSA

Our school is a member of a very special community, the Australasian Mercy Secondary Schools Association (AMSSA). This partnership between 66 Mercy-affiliated schools across the Australasian region enables students and staff to experience our shared charism biennially. This year, the AMSSA student conference was held in Bendigo, Victoria from June 24-27 and was attended by over 100 students and staff from participating schools. Yenuli P (Year 10) and Clodeta T (Year 11) represented SAC and had a wonderful time conversing, reflecting and exchanging ideas with their peers from around Australia. Myself, Gaby Kinsman (both Class of 2011) and Laila Laila (Class of 2022) were privileged to accompany the students and also to represent our community as keynote presenters and workshop facilitators. The theme for the 2024 AMSSA student conference was 'Mercy Pathways of Joy and Hope', and hope was certainly tangible after four days with Mercy leaders from so many corners of our nation. Below, Yenuli and Clodeta reflect on a week not to be forgotten:

"AMSSA allowed me to meet and forge new friendships with students from mercy schools across Australia. I was able to hear the stories of many leaders and participate in workshops. I learnt about the injustices faced by refugees and I was also educated on the difficulties women fleeing domestic violence must face. We were taken to visit the gold mines and the Great Stupa of Universal Compassion in Bendigo, which is the largest in the Southern Hemisphere. This was such a great opportunity and I am ever so grateful that I was a part of this amazing experience." - Yenuli P

This was an amazing conference that helped young people to explore, reflect and deepen our appreciation for the Mercy charism. With the theme being Pathways of Joy and Hope, we explored ways we can create positive change within our communities but also worldwide through the smallest actions. We listened to many Mercy stories and inspiring models such as Sister Sally Bradley (Executive Director of Mercy Works) and multiple Young Mercy Links members from South Australia and Victoria who encouraged us to go forth and find Mercy where needed. The AMSSA conference left a mark on our hearts, with the words of Catherine McAuley reminding us to, "speak as your mind directs and always act with courage." Her words inspire us to always strive for the common good of all people, helping uplift each other to create a future filled with joy, hope and compassion." - Clodeta T

From the Careers Department

Scholarship opportunity for Y12 students intending to study a STEM degree in 2025

• Elevate Scholarship Applicant Info Sessions — 9th & 10th July (mailchi.mp) to register.
• Elevate: Boosting women in STEM. (atse.org.au) to find out more.

Year 10 Work Experience

In Week 8 of Term 2, Year 10 students headed out on work experience for four days. Preparation occurred during EIF classes to ensure students were equipped with a clear understanding of workplace rights and responsibilities. Year 10 teachers who visited placement sites throughout the week were impressed to see students confidently engaging with enthusiasm and a zest to learn. We are proud of the Year 10’s who were wonderful representatives of St Aloysius College, and we thank all host employers for their support and encouragement.

This year students had the opportunity to participate in volunteering, vocational education and training, short courses or work experience. A group of Year 10 students opted to develop their employability skills through Barista training delivered at SAC by Nathaniel Butcher from the Adelaide Institute of Hospitality. Much to the delight of staff, students made an extensive range of coffees and were pleased to see their skills improve across the three days of training.

Congratulations to all involved!

Flinders University Taster Sessions for Y12 students

To register: Find out what it's like to study at Flinders at one of our taster days, made especially for you! - Flinders University

During the next school holidays, you can go to Flinders and spend a day experiencing what it's like to study there. You can try out Engineering, Visual Effects, Game Production and Digital Media, AI, Cybersecurity and IT, Marine Biology and Physic and Chemistry. A great way to explore some options!

UniSA Campus Tours

UniSA are offering school holiday campus tours, register here: July Campus Tours 2024 - Events calendar - University of South Australia (unisa.edu.au)

SATAC Applications for Y12 students

SATAC will be delivering a presentation to all Year 12 students on the first day of Term 3, Monday 22^nd July. The session will cover the SATAC application process which opens on Monday 5^th August.

Key Dates:

Ms Julie Stephenson
Careers & VET Coordinator

From OSHC

Decision making through free choice activities

In OSHC, our students are provided with lots of opportunities to decide which activities they wish to engage with. Students are encouraged to explore the craft materials, games, books and other resources in order to find activities which they enjoy the most. Such free choice activity time is supportive in helping our students build a sense of agency and play an active role in their OSHC experiences.

Recently, our students have been loving making creations with Hama Beads, using watercolour paints to create artworks, learning new card games, and making props and costumes for play.  We love watching student creativity flow as they use various OSHC materials to make their artworks and creations.

Ms Chelsea Hore
OSHC Staff

MTOP Outcomes:

1.2- Children develop their autonomy, inter-dependence, resilience and sense of agency.

1.3- Children develop knowledgeable and confident self-identities.

4.1- Children develop dispositions such as curiosity, cooperation, confidence, creativity, commitment, enthusiasm, persistence, imagination and reflexivity.

4.4- Children resource their own learning through connecting with people, place, technologies and natural and processed materials

Applications for The 2025 NYSF Year 12 Program are Now Open!

• Is your daughter in Year 11, studying and enjoying Science?
• Does your daughter know what career they want to pursue?
• Does your daughter love science, technology, engineering, mathematics or a related area and performing above the average in science? Has the drive to find solutions to problems and fix things? 
  Is curious and constantly asking Why? How? Why not?
• Do they want to know more about STEM-related study and career paths and meet other people of a similar age who are also exploring their options? 

If the answer to any of these questions is yes, then they are strongly encouraged to apply for the NYSF Year 12 Program now!

Apply now to join the nine day, January 2025 National Youth Science Forum held either at The Australian National University, Canberra (6 –14 January) or The University of Queensland, Brisbane (15 – 23 January)
Applications close: 15 July 2024

We have SAC students attending each year and return feeling this was a life changing and sensational opportunity. They will actually live on campus at university colleges and are fully immersed in science and technology. 

They will:

• participate in tours of science and technology facilities, 
• learn about cutting-edge research,
• engage with industry partners and research providers,
• learn about university, training and STEM career pathways,
• mix with like-minded students their age from all over Australia,
• participate in social and team building activities, and
• network with former NYSF participants.

Be quick! Applications close: 15 July 2024

For more information and to apply please ask your daughter to email me at: [email protected] and watch these two short videos: 

• https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vDpxuyC0JUo
• NYSF National Youth Science Forum (NYSF) - 2024 (youtube.com)

Mr Paolo Arman
Physics Teacher

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